Template Explorer

What is Template Explorer?

The Template Explorer in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) provides a convenient way to access, manage, and execute script templates for routine tasks. Templates are organized into logical groups such as Database, Security, and Reporting, allowing you to quickly generate scripts without writing them from scratch.

Templates are stored as .sql files in the Templates folder under the SSMS installation directory. You can add, edit, or remove templates directly from the Explorer.

Key Features

  • Hierarchical view of template categories.
  • Search and filter by name or content.
  • One‑click insertion of template code into a query window.
  • Customizable parameters using /*$(Variable)*/ syntax.
  • Export/Import of template collections.

How to Use Template Explorer

  1. Open SSMS and press Ctrl+Alt+T or select View → Template Explorer.
  2. Navigate the tree to find the desired template.
  3. Right‑click a template and choose Open to view/edit the script.
  4. Select Execute to insert the template into the current query window.
  5. Replace any placeholder variables (e.g., $(DatabaseName)) with actual values.

Creating Custom Templates

You can create your own templates to streamline repetitive tasks. Follow these steps:

1. Right‑click a folder in Template Explorer → New → Template...
2. Name the file (e.g., MyCustomScript.sql)
3. Add your script using $(Variable) placeholders.
4. Save and the template appears in the selected category.

Example of a simple backup template:

/* Backup Database Template */
BACKUP DATABASE [$(DatabaseName)]
TO DISK = N'$(BackupPath)\$(DatabaseName)_$(Date).bak'
WITH INIT, FORMAT, STATS = 10;
GO

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